Senior Procurement and Commercial Specialist - ICT

Mo te tunga | About the role

We are looking for an experienced Senior Procurement and Commercial Specialist to manage high-value, strategic commercial agreements within Defence Commercial Services.

This is a senior role within the Defence Commercial Services (DCS) team and is responsible for the delivery of strategic procurement and commercial lifecycle activities, advice and services to Defence INFOCOM and wider ICT for NZDF.

You will take the lead on significant and complex procurement projects that are strategically important to the NZDF. This includes outsourcing commoditised ICT services, building and maintaining internal and external relationships, delivering major systems transformation, and integrating military capabilities into NZDF's INFOCOM environment.

You will also provide mentoring support and leadership to your more junior team members through the Defence Leadership Development framework.

You will be:

• Delivering strategic and commercial advice to your customers through the procurement lifecycle (plan, source, manage) within the portfolio stream.
• Developing and actively managing strong and effective working relationships with key stakeholders.
• Managing complex procurement activities, as well as providing mentorship, advice and support to colleagues.
• Utilising analytical tools and applying performance and governance frameworks to ensure compliant, effective and efficient outcomes.
• Contributing to the overall capability and effectiveness of the NZDF procurement and commercial function.

The role is based in Wellington CBD, however once you are up to speed with the requirements of the role, there will be some flexibility around remote working 1-2 days a week.

Nga pukenga me nga wheako | Skills and Experience

You will be experienced in the management and delivery of a variety of procurement and commercial activities at a senior level. You will be passionate and knowledgeable with your key focus on exceptional customer delivery, ideally with end to end projects specifically ICT related.

You will also bring:

• Technical proficiency and experience in all aspects of the end-to-end procurement lifecycle, especially tendering.
• Working knowledge of Government Procurement Rules and best practice procurement.
• An ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, influence, and negotiate outcomes as a trusted advisor.
• Demonstrable experience in critical and strategic thinking and demonstrate resilience under pressure.
• Agility and flexibility to adapt to a broad range of procurement categories and take ownership of assigned projects.
• Passion for innovation and excitement for challenges.

If you are passionate and knowledgeable with your key focus on exceptional customer delivery, we want you to be a part of our team.

Nou te rourou | What's in it for you

Safeguard your loved ones with a fully funded life cover of up to $300,000 and critical illness protection. Other benefits include discounted additional insurances, free will services and savings schemes for the Defence community. Get expert financial guidance and mortgage broker services. Find all our benefits and more on the Force 4 Families website.

NZDF champions diversity and inclusivity, valuing every member and fuelling their success. We embrace uniqueness, understanding that diverse teams drive creativity, innovation, and excellence. With an open door to all - irrespective of gender, ethnicity, ability, age, or family dynamics - NZDF offers a flexible, empowering work environment. Join us in shaping a brighter future, where everyone thrives.

Me pehea te tuku tono | How to Apply

Applications close on Wednesday 10 June 2026.

Use the links on this page where you'll be directed to the Defence Careers website.

Please Note

• All applications must be made online, via the Defence Careers website. Each listing contains the Position Description and a Contact Us option for any queries or technical issues.
• Your cover letter will be a key part of our selection process, so please highlight how your experience relates to the key activities outlined in the Advert and Position Description.
• Applicants will be required to undergo a pre-employment drug-screening test prior to any offer of employment being made.

NZDF Employees/Members - please apply internally via the HR Toolkit; this will ensure that you are visible as an internal candidate.

NZDF Contractors - please apply via the Defence Careers website.

NZDF Reserves - please apply via the Defence Careers website if you cannot access the HR Toolkit.

Please Note

To be eligible for the required level of government security clearance with the NZ Defence Force, you need to meet certain citizenship and residency criteria. Here's what you need to know:

Higher Level Security Clearance

• You must be a New Zealand citizen or you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa.
• At minimum, you must hold New Zealand Permanent Residence or have a current New Zealand Residency Class Visa, and you must be a citizen of and have lived in Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, United States of America or New Zealand continuously for the last ten (10) years.
• You must have a ten (10) year background history that can be verified and assessed appropriately by the NZ Security Intelligence Service (NZSIS) to determine if you are suitable for a security clearance at this level.

If you do not meet the minimum criteria, unfortunately, your application will not be accepted. We do welcome your application at a time when you will meet the requirements.